Copper Phosphide (Phosphor Copper)
Copper phosphide with more than 15% phosphorus by weight is used in metallurgy for deoxidizing and alloying applications. Chapter Note 7 to Chapter 28 explicitly includes this product in heading 2853, overriding any other classification. It is a phosphide, whether or not chemically defined, excluding ferrophosphorus.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the phosphorus content is 15% or less
Copper alloys with lower phosphorus content are classified under Chapter 74.
If the product is in powder form for use as a master alloy
Copper master alloys in powder form may fall under heading 7405 if they do not meet the phosphide definition.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Document the phosphorus content clearly, as the 15% threshold is critical for classification under this tariff item
• If the product is imported in master alloy form for foundry use, confirm whether it meets the definition of a phosphide versus a copper alloy
• Consider requesting a CBSA advance ruling to avoid reclassification at the border
Related Products under Tariff item 2853.90.00
2-inch Undoped Gallium Arsenide Test Wafer
A 2-inch undoped gallium arsenide test wafer is used for process control and calibration in semiconductor fabrication. Chapter Note 8 to Chapter 28 states that chemical elements doped for electronics are classified in this chapter only in unworked forms; however, gallium arsenide is a compound, not an element. Undoped wafers cut into discs or wafers fall under heading 3818, not this tariff item.
Aluminum Phosphide
> Aluminum phosphide is a chemically defined inorganic compound used primarily as a fumigant in agriculture to control pests in stored grains. As a phosphide of a metal other than iron, it is classified under heading 28.53, specifically this tariff item for other phosphides.
Aluminum Phosphide Tablets
Aluminum phosphide tablets are a chemically defined inorganic compound used for fumigation, generating phosphine gas upon exposure to moisture. As a phosphide other than ferrophosphorus, it falls under heading 2853. The tablets are presented in a form ready for use, but remain classified as the inorganic compound itself.
Barium Phosphide
> Barium phosphide is a chemically defined metal phosphide used in specialty alloys and as a reducing agent in extractive metallurgy. As a phosphide of a metal other than iron, it is classified under heading 28.53, falling under this tariff item for other phosphides.
Cadmium Phosphide
> Cadmium phosphide is a chemically defined phosphide used as a II-V semiconductor material for infrared detectors and photovoltaics. As a phosphide of a metal other than iron, it is classified under heading 28.53, specifically this tariff item for other phosphides.
Calcium Phosphide
> Calcium phosphide is a chemically defined phosphide used to generate phosphine gas in pyrotechnic signal flares and smoke generators. As a phosphide of a metal other than iron, it is classified under heading 28.53, falling under this tariff item for other phosphides.